Constantino and Smullen Clash in June 23 GOP Primary for Trump-Won 60% Stefanik Seat
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jun 21
Constantino and Smullen Clash in June 23 GOP Primary for Trump-Won 60% Stefanik Seat
3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jun 21
Summary
Tuesday’s Republican primary to replace Elise Stefanik has become a bitter test between Anthony Constantino, a first-time MAGA-aligned businessman, and Robert Smullen, a traditional GOP assemblymember and retired Marine colonel.
At a recent rally, Constantino told a questioner who challenged his immigration views that supporters of human trafficking “need to get beat up a little bit,” before security removed the man.
The race has spiraled into lawsuits, personal attacks and party infighting: Smullen calls Constantino unfit, Constantino threatened to sue Smullen, and Conservative Party Chair Jerry Kassar is suing Constantino for defamation.
Money and endorsements have sharpened the split. Constantino has self-funded $10 million and spent more than $3.8 million on ads after winning Trump’s backing, while Smullen has establishment support including the NRA, U.S. Chamber and New York GOP.
The fight matters beyond one ruby-red district: if Smullen stays on the Conservative Party line after a primary loss, Republicans fear a 2009-style split could open a path for Democrats in a narrowly divided House.